The organiser of WTM London has issued a statement to reassure visitors that the event will go ahead as planned next month,  despite the number of new COVID cases in the UK climbing to almost 50,000.

Its statement followed a Downing Street press briefing by Health Minister Sajid Javid on Wednesday in which he said the number of new daily cases could reach 100,000.

RX said it wanted to reassure ‘all our customers and partners’ that the face-to-face show will go ahead as planned from 1 – 3 November at ExCel London, followed by a virtual show on 8-9 November.

It pledged ‘utmost priority’ for visitors’ health and safety during the physical event.

All attendees will verify their COVID status, by showing they have been double-vaccinated, or have a negative test, or proof of natural immunity.

It is also ‘strongly’ recommending that masks should be worn at all times during the show when inside, but this is not obligatory.

“We also highly recommend that masks should be worn any time you are traveling on a plane, bus, train, or other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of London,” it said.

In fact, Transport for London (TFL) requires all passengers to wear face masks on public transport.

 “Our team is working closely with ExCel London, TFL and the Dockland Light Railway to ensure the health and safety of our exhibitors, visitors and partners,” added RX.

“ExCeL London have successfully and safely delivered more than 30 events since re-opening this summer with the health, safety and wellbeing of all visitors remaining their utmost priority. 

“The venue’s safety protocols, follow the industry and government approved ‘All Secure Standard’, which adheres to the latest guidance.

“ExCel London have already welcomed more than 500,000 international and domestic visitors through their doors this year – each one following the entry protocol of showing proof of double vaccination, a negative lateral flow test (within 48 hours) or proof of Covid-19 antibodies.

“Once inside the venue, ExCeL recommends the use of face coverings and to make use of the numerous hand sanitising points. This is complemented by stringent cleaning regimes, cashless transactions and digital signage to encourage social distancing.”

RX said that ExCel, which was transformed into a Nightingale Hospital for COVID patients during the height of the pandemic, also benefits from an enhanced ventilation system, which has increased in line with the latest guidance and recommendations.

“Fresh air supply has also been improved by increasing the size and speed of fans, as well as the installation of new pipes and CO2 monitors in meeting rooms,” it added.

There will be a COVID-testing facility inside WTM London, provided by ExpressTest by Cignpost, so visitors who need to test before flying home can do so without leaving the venue.

“We continue to monitor the situation constantly and follow the guidance from the UK government,” RX added.